OUR TEAM
The Heart Behind Our Mission:
Meet The NSD Team
The team at National Service Dogs isn't just a collection of individuals – it's the heart of our mission. Each member plays an important role in building the life-changing partnerships between Service Dogs and those in need.
An Innovative Group Of Experts
Board Of Directors
Meet Our Passionate And Talented Staff
NSD Team
Dani guides NSD to fulfill its mission. As an NSD founder with a background in service dog training, Dani brings a deep, diverse scope of experience to NSD. Outside of work, she enjoys family time and trail walks with her friends and dogs.
Danielle Forbes
Executive Director
Rochelle brings her experience in Organizational Development, Social Services, and Communications to NSD. She loves connecting, sharing stories, and pursues her passion for photography by capturing NSD’s lovely dogs.
Rochelle Barber
Director of Operations
Currently on maternity leave. Caitlin, with years of experience in the Service Dog industry, leads the breeding and puppy program at NSD, emphasizing teamwork between the dogs and volunteers. She is dedicated to ensuring a positive training experience.
Caitlin Bonaldo
Assistant Director of Canine Development
Currently on maternity leave. Rachel has expertise in child development and trauma extending to provincial and national training sessions. With a Masters of Social Work, she is passionate about utilizing accredited Service Dogs in trauma and victim response.
Rachel Braden
Social Worker, Client Services
Amy’s experience in youth mental health allows her to understand the value of the unique support Service Dogs offer. With a Master's in Social Work, she supports the participants in NSD programs and likes to think outside the box.
Amy Moore
Social Worker, Client Services
Ashley joins NSD with years of experience working with shelter dogs and training therapy horses on her farm. With a lifelong passion for animals, she shares her life with a Black Lab named Hank and two competitive horses, Herc and Apollo.
Ashley Hedge
Training Coordinator and Instructor
Currently on maternity leave. Mandy has completed a training apprenticeship, and has been a puppy raiser since 2018. She gets excited to connect with clients during team training, and has a vast knowledge of grooming and a passion for dogs.
Mandy Langerak
Trainer
Nicki brings years of diverse dog industry experience, including pet and police dog training, and managing boarding services. Committed to learning and certification, she enjoys training her own dog, Ashes, and competing in dog sports.
Nicki Abid
Trainer
Emma brings a business and hospitality background, and loves sharing her passion and connecting with fellow volunteers. Inspired by seeing service dogs in training, she became a puppy raiser in 2019 and fell in love with NSD's community.
Emma Speller
Puppy Program Instructor
Sean has two decades of management, sales, and customer service experience, and is now pursuing his passion for dogs. He supports mental health conversations and enjoys cooking, hiking, camping, and road trips with his dog, Fergus.
Sean Jenkins
Puppy Program Instructor
Rachel has 6 years of service dog industry experience, including fostering, raising, whelping, neonatal care, puppy training, and veterinary care. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her pet Molson (Moe) and relaxing at the cottage.
Rachel Gallant
Breeding and Animal Health Manager
Tara joined NSD as a puppy raiser, breeder caretaker, and whelping home volunteer. She cherishes the culture and community, and remains the breeder caretaker for NSD Hazel and NSD Penelope, eagerly anticipating more puppies in the future!
Tara Kirkby
Whelping and Animal Health Assistant
Paula started her career with exotic animals before transitioning to work in the service dog industry, wanting to learn more about dog training and health. Outside of work, she enjoys camping and hiking with her dog Wren.
Paula Zimmermann
Canine Development & Operations Assistant
Lynne brings over 10 years of nonprofit experience to NSD, specializing in volunteer management, public relations, fundraising, and Deafblind intervention. Outside of work, she enjoys live music, movies, travel, and time with loved ones.
Lynne Davidson
Fund Development Specialist
Cindy comes to NSD with 15+ years of experience in the hospitality business, managing many large-scale events in the premium areas throughout North America. She loves the service dog community and making a difference.
Cindy Webb
Event Coordinator
Meghan has over a decade of experience in Human Resources. As a longtime volunteer, she has shifted to supporting volunteers full-time. Meghan enjoys being outside and spending time with her family and black lab cross pup, Jake.
Meghan Kraehling
Volunteer Coordinator
Margie has been NSD's Bookkeeper since 2001, managing finances, payroll, and tax receipts. She adores both the dedicated pups and staff. In her free time, Margie enjoys scrapbooking, spending time with her family, and making others smile!
Margie Rolston
Bookkeeper
Open Doors:
Donate Today
Each of our dogs is provided to those in need, free of charge. Help support our mission by donating today.
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